9.29.2024

Both Tomas “The Jackal” Aguirre (Argentina/Dojo Serpiente) and Meng Gaofeng (Tianjin AFU Fight Club/CFP) stood their ground during the staredown, neither flinching nor giving way. With the sound of the bell, Meng wasted no time closing the distance, forcing Aguirre to cover up early to withstand a barrage of punches. With a height difference of 9 cm, Aguirre struggled to connect with big-swinging hooks, wildly missing the mark.

Meng, on the other hand, effectively utilized calf kicks from the start. Every time Aguirre tried to advance, he was met with jabs to the midsection, and by the time he could mount a counter-offense, Meng was already out of range. The Chinese fighter used jabs effectively throughout the first round to maintain distance and apply constant pressure. Aguirre struggled to find a way to respond, managing to land only a few low kicks, and was constantly punished by Meng’s relentless calf kicks.

Perhaps it was the instructions from his corner that set him straight, but beginning in the second round, Aguirre was able to find his rhythm. Combining low kicks with his hands, he scored a knockdown within 30 seconds of the bell. The increased pressure pushed Meng onto the back foot, and Aguirre started checking kicks, at one point even managing an unbelievable check to Meng’s calf kick with the bottom of his opposite foot—a move evocative of UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira. Aguirre then started landing middle kicks, flying knees, and hooks to the body, forcing Meng into defensive mode. Aguirre received a warning for excessive clinching, but his aggression dominated the round.

In round 3, Aguirre opened with a right hook and continued using his footwork to check Meng’s low kicks. He absorbed Meng’s jabs and waited for his timing, using his boxing skills to counter a visibly exhausted Meng. The Chinese fighter, now flagging and sporting damage over his right eye, seemed to struggle to stay in the fight.

Aguirre, sensing his opponent’s fatigue, shelled up and picked his shots carefully. Meng’s legs buckled under the pressure. Perhaps hoping to avoid a late-fight reversal, Aguirre sought refuge in the clinch and received another warning. The aggressive Argentinian continued to land body shots and low kicks, wearing Meng down.

As the fight came to a close, all of Meng’s early dominance in the first round evaporated, along with his chances of victory. Aguirre finished the fight strong, winning by decision and advancing to semi-final #2.